Venezuela has agreed to restart repatriation flights for undocumented migrants from the U.S. amidst ongoing tensions. The deal was confirmed by President Nicolás Maduro and aims to safeguard the rights of returning citizens. These developments coincide with the Trump administration’s approach to mass deportations, raising legal and humanitarian questions.
Venezuela has established a new accord to recommence repatriation flights for migrants previously living illegally in the United States. This agreement was announced by prominent Venezuelan officials and confirmed by President Nicolás Maduro during a televised address, highlighting the importance of this development amidst ongoing diplomatic tensions between Venezuela and the U.S., particularly following the revocation of Chevron’s oil export license.
The announcement arrives as the Trump administration continues its campaign commitment to facilitate mass deportations of undocumented immigrants. Notably, over 200 alleged members of Venezuela’s Tren de Aragua gang were recently transported to a prison in El Salvador with minimal due process. Caracas had temporarily halted deportation flights on March 8 following the U.S. Treasury’s sanctions on its oil exports.
Jorge Rodríguez, President of Venezuela’s National Assembly and Maduro’s chief negotiator, confirmed via social media the resumption of flights to secure the “return of our compatriots” and to ensure their human rights are safeguarded. Maduro echoed this sentiment in his addresses, stating the agreement would enable Venezuela to continue rescuing migrants from U.S. prisons while criticizing Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele for his role in the situation involving the gang members.
Venezuelan officials have rebutted accusations that the deported individuals were connected to the Tren de Aragua gang. The administration under Trump faces legal challenges due to alleged violations of a ruling by U.S. District Judge James Boasberg, which seeks to halt the expedited deportation of Venezuelan migrants identified as gang members under the Alien Enemies Act of 1798. The White House claimed that the flights proceeded under a technicality that rendered them unaffected by the ruling.
The Venezuelan government has emphasized the urgency of ensuring the safe return of its citizens. Rodríguez stated, “Migrating is not a crime, and we will not rest until all those who want to return are home, and until we rescue our brothers kidnapped in El Salvador.” As flights from the U.S. to Venezuela are set to begin on an imminent date, details on the Trump administration’s compliance with the judge’s ruling are expected by March 25.
In conclusion, the recent agreement between Venezuela and the United States marks a significant development in the repatriation of Venezuelan migrants. Amidst ongoing tensions, the resumption of flights not only reflects the commitment of the Venezuelan government to protect its citizens but also aligns with the Trump administration’s deportation objectives. As the situation evolves, further scrutiny regarding compliance with U.S. legal rulings will be paramount in ensuring the rights of those affected remain a priority.
Original Source: www.newsweek.com
